About This Route
Eurotunnel's Le Shuttle is the fastest way to cross the English Channel with a cat — just 35 minutes from platform to platform. You and your cat stay together in your vehicle the entire time. No kennels, no separation. Dedicated pet exercise areas are available at both the Folkestone and Calais terminals. The service runs up to 4 departures per hour at peak times. This is a train through the Channel Tunnel, not a ferry — but it's a critical sea-crossing option.
Cat Travel Details
Pet Fee
£22 per pet each way (2026). Pet exercise areas free to use at both terminals.
Cat Notes
Your cat stays in the vehicle with you for the entire 35-minute crossing. No need for a carrier during the actual tunnel transit, though a carrier is recommended. Use the pet exercise areas at both terminals for pre/post-crossing breaks. EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination required.
Booking
Book your vehicle crossing online. Add pet at time of booking. No separate pet facility booking needed.
Pro Tip
This is the gold standard for Channel crossings with a nervous cat — just 35 minutes, no kennels, no separation, your cat stays with you in the car. The terminals have excellent pet exercise areas. Folkestone terminal has a large grassed area. Much less stressful than any ferry option for cats that don't travel well.
Restrictions
Vehicle passengers only — no foot passengers with pets. Pets must stay in vehicle. No access to carriages during crossing. Not a ferry (rail tunnel), but essential for the sea crossing between UK and continental Europe.